The 2016 Infiniti Q50S AWD gets 21 MPG combined, which isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s not why buyers choose this car. This is a sporty, all-weather luxury sedan, a car that prioritizes confident acceleration and a planted feel over being thrifty. The Q50S AWD buyer wants a touch of performance with a dash of practicality, and fuel consumption often takes a back seat to driving enjoyment.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway highlight a familiar trade-off. The Q50S’s 3.0L turbocharged V6 requires more fuel to move its weight through stop-and-go urban environments. The turbocharger spools up frequently in the city, impacting efficiency. On the open highway, the automatic transmission settles into its overdrive gears, allowing for more relaxed cruising and improved economy. Any enthusiastic application of the throttle on the highway will eliminate those gains quickly. For those who frequently drive long distances, or encounter heavy traffic, be sure to examine Q50S MPG across all years to assess the trends.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Infiniti Q50S AWD is $2,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, as actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium gasoline is recommended for optimal performance in this engine), and prevailing fuel prices in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling will all contribute to higher fuel consumption and a larger annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can fluctuate significantly. Drivers who prioritize performance and frequently engage the Q50S’s sport mode may find themselves averaging closer to 18-19 MPG overall. Conversely, those with a more relaxed driving style and a greater emphasis on highway cruising could potentially see numbers slightly exceeding the EPA’s 26 MPG highway estimate. One factor that consistently impacts fuel economy is the use of all-wheel drive. While offering superior traction in inclement weather, AWD inherently adds weight and drivetrain friction, both of which contribute to increased fuel consumption. The trade of traction for efficiency is common in vehicles equipped with AWD, especially sporty cars like the Q50S.

How it compares

The 2016 Q50S AWD’s fuel economy positions it in a specific niche among its rivals. For instance, the BMW 340i xDrive, with its similar 3.0L turbocharged inline-six and all-wheel drive, achieves around 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C400 4MATIC, another competitor at the time, delivered around 24 MPG combined. The Audi S4, offering a touch more performance but a similar AWD setup, landed at around 21 MPG combined, much like the Q50S. These MPG figures underscore the character of the Q50S buyer. They are unlikely to cross-shop with a Lexus ES 300h hybrid (40+ MPG combined), because the Lexus does not have the sport-tuned character they are looking for. The Q50S buyer knows good fuel economy is possible in a four-door sedan, but they are seeking performance above all else.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the simplest ways to improve fuel economy in the Q50S is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking, and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops. Using the vehicle’s drive mode selector and choosing the “Eco” mode can also help, as it adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency.

Proper tire inflation is another often-overlooked factor. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel economy. You can find the recommended tire pressure listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This can help to reduce fuel consumption by minimizing fluctuations in throttle input. However, be mindful of road conditions and traffic patterns, as cruise control may not be suitable for all situations.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure that your Q50S receives scheduled oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy. You can view all Infiniti fuel economy data on this site, so you can easily see how the Q50S AWD sits within the total range.